KUCHING – The departure of His Excellency the Yang di-Pertua Negeri Sarawak, Tun Pehin Sri Dr Haji Wan Junaidi bin Tuanku Jaafar, together with his wife, Toh Puan Datuk Patinggi Fauziah binti Mohd Sanusi, was marked by a rare cultural gesture that evoked deep emotion among those present.
As the couple prepared to leave for the holy pilgrimage to Makkah, Tun Wan Junaidi raised a pocak cloth – a handkerchief traditionally waved by the Sarawak Malay community when sending off loved ones embarking on the Hajj.
The spontaneous act drew attention to a heritage custom that has become increasingly uncommon in modern times.
The pocak tradition, according to cultural accounts, dates back to the era when pilgrims travelled by sea. Families and friends would wave white cloths to one another as ships departed, symbolising prayers for safety, peace, and eventual reunion.
The practice was once widespread among Malay households in Sarawak but has gradually faded with the advent of air travel and changing social customs.
Observers noted that the governor’s gesture not only honoured a long-standing tradition but also reminded Sarawakians of the importance of preserving cultural practices that embody community values. The act of waving a pocak is seen as a heartfelt farewell, carrying blessings and hopes for a safe journey.
The governor’s and his wife’s departure for the Hajj pilgrimage highlights the enduring significance of faith within Sarawak’s leadership.
The Hajj, one of the five pillars of Islam, is a sacred journey undertaken by Muslims worldwide, and for many Sarawakians, it remains a deeply spiritual milestone.
Community leaders have expressed that such gestures of cultural remembrance help strengthen identity and continuity across generations.
The revival of the pocak tradition, even in a symbolic form, serves as a reminder of Sarawak’s rich heritage and the values of unity and prayer that underpin its society.
As Tun Wan Junaidi and Toh Puan Fauziah embark on their pilgrimage, prayers have been extended for their safety, ease in performing acts of worship, and blessings throughout the journey.
The people of Sarawak collectively wish them a successful Hajj, under the protection and guidance of Allah SWT.
The moment at Kuching not only marked a departure but also rekindled a cultural memory, ensuring that the pocak tradition remains part of Sarawak’s living heritage.
